Caper, Capparis spinosa L., a shrub native to the Mediterranean
region, is a tender perennial plant with deep roots and a long
stem that reaches a height of 1.5 meters. Two forms of caper exist,
a spiny and a nonspiny (var. inermis). The reported
life zone of capers is 13 to 27 degrees centigrade with 0.3 to
2.6 meters annual precipitation and a soil pH of 6.3 to 8.3 (4.1-31,
14.1-4). Capers thrive best in dry soil with plenty of drainage.
Detailed studies on horticultural and chemical aspects of capers
have not been completed.

In commercial operations, unopened flower buds are generally collected
by hand from wild plants and pickled to produce a pungent taste
and smell before being used in salads and in tartar and other
sauces. Recent research has indicated that extracts of capers
are an effective treatment for enlarged capillaries and for improving
dry skin (7.5-66). Leaves of the related species Capparishorrida are used as rubefacients. Capparis flexuosa
is reported to be useful in treating general skin diseases (11.1-96).
Capparis fascicularis and Capparis tumentosa are
poisonous (11.1-96).

Capers are generally recognized as safe when used as spices or
natural seasonings/flavorings (21 CFR section 182.10 [1982]).

[Note: References listed above in parentheses can be found in
full in the original reference].